World Player of the Week: Marco Reus - Germany

Is Marco Reus now Germany's best player? Many Mannschaft fans certainly believe so following yet another devastating performance from the attacking midfielder in the 6-1 World Cup qualifying Group C dismantling of Republic of Ireland on Friday night.

The 23-year-old was unplayable in Dublin, scoring the opening two goals and terrorising the Irish defence every time he got the ball on the left wing. Skill, pace, deadly finishing - Reus seemingly has it all.

Having joined Borussia Dortmund this summer, Reus has already scored six goals in all competitions and appears to be an upgrade on the departed Shinji Kagawa.

Make no mistake about it - the Dortmund star has the ability to become not only the best player in Germany but one of the best in the world.

Congratulations to Marco Reus, Goal.com's 178th World Player of the Week winner!

Honourable Mention

Gareth Bale - Wales

The Tottenham livewire ran riot in the closing stages of Wales' 2-1 triumph over Scotland, winning and scoring thel equaliser from the penalty spot before firing home an unstoppable long-range strike into the top corner to complete a stunning turnaround.

Sergey Ignashevich - Russia

Fabio Capello's side took an early lead in their big Group F qualifier against Portugal, but had to sustain heavy pressure for the remainder of the game. That they held out was largely thanks to the rock-solid defending of centre-back Ignashevich.

Eiji Kawashima - Japan

One of the shocks of the week came in Paris where Japan earned a prestigious 1-0 friendly win over France. Goalkeeper Kawashima was the hero with a string of quality saves as les Bleus warmed up for the big Spain clash in the worst possible way.

Lionel Messi - Argentina

The Barcelona superstar now has an incredible 11 goals in just seven international games for Argentina in 2012 as he hit a clinical double in the 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Copa America champions Uruguay. His second was a brilliant free kick.

Pedro - Spain

The Barca man's return to top class form is now well and truly complete as he produced a breathtaking individual performance as Spain hammered Belarus 4-0 in Minsk. The skillful winger bagged a hat-trick, which included a beautiful, delicate chip over the opposition goalkeeper.